Man Gets Life for 'Precious Doe' Killing

A man convicted of killing and beheading a 3-year-old girl, who was known only as "Precious Doe" for almost four years while authorities tried to identify her, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Harold Johnson was sentenced to life for the 2001 murder of Erica Green.

Johnson was convicted last month of first-degree murder, endangering the welfare of a child and abuse of a child.

Life without parole was the only sentence option for Judge John Torrance after prosecutors decided not to seek the death penalty in the case.

Johnson told police he was under the influence of alcohol and PCP when he became angry with Erica when she refused to go to bed. He kicked her, threw her on the floor, and left her there unconscious.

Erica remained on the floor unconscious for two days. The couple refused to seek medical help because they both had warrants out for their arrest, police said.

Erica's mother, Michelle Johnson, pleaded guilty in the case, testified against her husband at his trial and was sentenced to 25 years in prison.

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Man Gets Life in Prison for 'Precious Doe' Killing

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Earlier Articles:
Man Convicted of 'Precious Doe' Murder
Precious Doe's Mom Testifies Against Husband
Mother, Stepfather Changed in 'Precious Doe' Case

^{Photo: Mug Shot}